Page 66 of Falling for Love

I couldn’t help but laugh, picturing the scene.

“I think I’d pay money to see that.”

“Trust me, it was worth every penny of the class fee,” he said, shaking his head. “I’m still amazed she didn’t kick us all out of the family.”

“Well, that’s one thing I’ve never tried—goat yoga,” I said, leaning my elbow on the table and resting my chin in my hand. “But I imagine it’s a unique experience.”

“Unique is one word for it,” Liam said with a grin. “So, no goat yoga for you. What’s your thing, then? Besides wrangling horses and making world-class spaghetti?”

I smiled. “World-class, huh? High praise coming from someone who once fought an immersion blender and lost.”

“Ouch,” he said, raising his glass in mock acknowledgment. “But seriously, what’s your thing?”

I hesitated, suddenly aware of how little time I actually spent doing anything for myself.

“I guess… reading, sometimes. Baking, when I have the time. Honestly, most of my free time is spent with Hayden. He’s kind of my hobby and full-time job all rolled into one. I love it.”

Liam’s expression softened. “He’s an awesome kid. You’ve done an amazing job with him.”

“Thanks,” I said quietly, feeling joy spread through me at his words. “He’s my everything.”

Hayden appeared in the doorway as if on cue, his pajamas slightly askew and his hair sticking up in all directions.

“Mom, is it bedtime yet?”

I glanced at the clock and realized how late it had gotten.

“Yeah, sweetie, it’s about that time. Go brush your teeth, and I’ll be right there.”

Hayden hesitated, his gaze shifting to Liam. “Can Liam put me to bed too?”

My heart skipped a beat, and I looked over at Liam, unsure how he’d react. His smile didn’t falter, but there was a flicker of surprise in his eyes.

“I don’t mind,” Liam said, his voice easy and reassuring.

I bit my lip, torn between the desire to protect Hayden from getting too attached too soon and how Liam seemed to fit seamlessly into our lives.

“Hayden, why don’t you go get started? I’ll be there in a minute.”

Hayden nodded and padded off down the hallway, leaving us alone in the kitchen. I turned to Liam, my fingers fiddling with the edge of my sweater.

“You don’t have to,” I said softly. “He’s just… not used to having anyone else around.”

Liam leaned forward, his hands resting on the table. “Evie, I’m happy to. If it’s okay with you.”

I hesitated, and my mind swirled with a million what-ifs.

But the way Liam looked at me—calm and patient—made something inside me relax.

“Don’t mention the fact that I forgot to give him some apple pie,” I said finally. “But just this once. You won’t have to start driving over here every night.”

He grinned, standing and stretching before following me down the hall.

“Now, I’ll make damn sure I do an amazing job.” A playful smirk tipped his mouth as he brought his lips close to my ear and whispered. “And we still need a slice before I leave.”

I flashed him a wry smile.

Hayden was already in bed with his favorite stuffed dog, a well-loved toy he’d named Barkley.

---